Geoff Hurst Net Worth: The Story Behind England’s World Cup Hat-Trick Hero

Sir Geoffrey Charles “Geoff” Hurst is a name etched in football history. Born on 8 December 1941, he remains the only man to have scored a hat-trick in a FIFA World Cup Final. Today, at the age of 83, Hurst’s legacy stretches far beyond that famous Wembley evening in 1966. His story blends football glory, personal struggles, and a net worth built steadily across decades.

Profile Summary

Key Detail	Information
Full Name	Sir Geoffrey Charles Hurst
Date of Birth	8 December 1941
Age	83 years old
Birthplace	Ashton-under-Lyne, Lancashire, England
Height	5 ft 11½ in (1.82 m)
Weight (playing days)	12 st 13 lbs (81-83 kg)
Position	Striker (Centre-forward)
National Team	England (49 caps, 24 goals)
Major Achievement	Hat-trick in 1966 World Cup Final
Clubs Played For	West Ham, Stoke City, West Bromwich Albion, Seattle Sounders, others
Net Worth	Estimated $5M–$12M
Spouse	Judith Harries
Children	Clare, Joanne, Charlotte

Early Life

Geoff Hurst was born in Ashton-under-Lyne, Lancashire, before his family moved to Chelmsford, Essex when he was six. His father, Charlie Hurst, was also a professional footballer, while his mother, Evelyn Hopkins, came from a Gloucestershire family with German roots. Geoff grew up with two younger siblings: a sister, Diane, and a brother, Robert.

As a boy, Hurst excelled not only in football but also in cricket. In 1962, he even appeared for Essex in a first-class cricket match before deciding to pursue football fully.

Physical Appearance

Hurst stood out with his commanding build on the pitch. Standing at 5 ft 11½ in (1.82 m) and weighing around 12 st 13 lbs (81-83 kg) in his playing days, he combined strength with technical ability. His physique made him a formidable striker, capable of battling defenders and scoring decisive goals.

Club Career

Hurst joined West Ham United’s youth ranks in 1957 and made his senior debut soon after. Over 14 years at the club, he made more than 400 appearances and scored nearly 180 goals. He helped West Ham lift the FA Cup in 1964 and the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1965.

After leaving West Ham in 1972, Hurst joined Stoke City, playing three seasons there. He later had short spells with West Bromwich Albion, Cork Celtic, Seattle Sounders, and finished with Telford United. His career highlighted consistency, leadership, and a striker’s instinct.

International Career

Hurst made his England debut in 1966, just months before the World Cup. Manager Sir Alf Ramsey trusted him to replace Jimmy Greaves in the quarter-final, a decision that changed history. In the 1966 World Cup Final, Hurst scored a legendary hat-trick in England’s 4-2 victory over West Germany. His goals included the famous strike that bounced off the crossbar—a goal still debated to this day.

Between 1966 and 1972, Hurst earned 49 caps for England and scored 24 goals. He played in the 1970 World Cup and was part of England’s squad until the early 1970s.

Post-Football Career

After retiring as a player, Hurst moved into management. He managed Chelsea (1979-81), Kuwait SC (1982-84), and Telford United. Later, he left coaching and entered the business world, working in insurance before building a career as a speaker, author, and ambassador for football. His autobiography 1966 and All That provides personal insight into his remarkable life.

Net Worth

Unlike modern footballers who earn millions in a single season, Hurst played during a modest era for wages. His net worth today is estimated between $5 million and $12 million. This wealth comes from a mixture of:

• Career earnings from football and management.
• Book royalties and autobiography sales.
• Public speaking engagements and appearances.
• Investments and ambassadorial roles.

Though far less than contemporary football icons, Hurst’s financial success reflects steady work and enduring recognition.

Personal Life

In 1964, Geoff married Judith Harries, and they had three daughters: Clare, Joanne, and Charlotte. Tragically, their eldest daughter Clare passed away in 2010 after a long battle with a brain tumour. His brother Robert also died young in 1974. These personal losses deeply shaped his outlook on life.

Hurst has lived a grounded life away from luxury. Residing in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, he is known for humility and dignity, choosing family and community over extravagance.

Recognition and Legacy

Hurst’s football achievements brought lasting recognition:

• Knighted in 1998 for services to football.
• Inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame.
• Continues to appear at major events, sharing his experiences with younger generations.

His name is forever linked to 1966, but his legacy is much broader, spanning decades of contribution to English football.

Lifestyle and Character

Unlike many modern players, Hurst’s lifestyle has always been modest. After the 1966 final, he was famously found mowing his lawn the next morning. Stories like this reflect his down-to-earth character. Today, he still attends matches, charity events, and talks openly about football and health, especially dementia research for ex-players.

Social Media and Public Image

Hurst maintains a presence on social media, particularly X (formerly Twitter) under @TheGeoffHurst. He uses the platform to share thoughts on football, connect with fans, and raise awareness about charitable causes. He also has an official website and a public Facebook page dedicated to his career.

Fun Facts

• Hurst once juggled cricket and football before fully committing to West Ham.
• He was nicknamed “Puffer” for puffing out his cheeks when striking the ball.
• In Cockney rhyming slang, a “Geoff Hurst” means a First-class degree, thanks to the rhyme.
• Despite fame, he values privacy and family time over public spectacle.

Conclusion

Sir Geoff Hurst’s story shows that true greatness isn’t defined solely by wealth. His estimated net worth, though impressive, is just part of a broader legacy filled with history, humility, and inspiration. From his working-class roots to his knighthood, Hurst’s journey is one of perseverance, achievement, and humanity. For England fans, he will forever remain the World Cup hat-trick hero, but for those who look closer, his life tells a story of resilience, modesty, and a lasting impact beyond football.

FAQs

What is Geoff Hurst’s current net worth?

His net worth is estimated between $5 million and $12 million, earned through football, management, writing, and public roles.

How old is Geoff Hurst today?

Born on 8 December 1941, Geoff Hurst is currently 83 years old.

How tall is Geoff Hurst?

He stands at 5 ft 11½ in (1.82 m), a height that gave him presence on the pitch.

Who is Geoff Hurst married to?

He has been married to Judith Harries since 1964, and together they raised three daughters.

What is Geoff Hurst most famous for?

Hurst is celebrated as the only player to score a hat-trick in a FIFA World Cup Final, achieved in 1966 when England defeated West Germany.